QUESTION
Can my landlord charge a large amount of money as legal fees on a past due rent?
Asked on Mar 13th, 2013 on Landlord and Tenant Law - Pennsylvania
More details to this question:
My rent was due on March 1, I will be paying it on the 20th of March. I just received a notice from my landlord attorney, given me five days to pay, my rent amount of $885.00, plust the 10% late fee of $85.00, then tacked on a $450.00 legal fee was added.
1 ANSWER
Civil Litigation Attorney serving York, PA
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Under Pennsylvania law, the American Rule applies. According to that law, each party must cover its own attorney's fees unless they have agreed otherwise (i.e., the lease provides for such fees) or if a statutes permits otherwise. Assuming there is such a basis for the assessment of attorney's fees, only "reasonable" attorney's fees can generally be assessed. The reasonableness of those fees, if not agreed to by the parties must be decided by a court of law. I would strongly suggest that you consult with an experienced Landlord-Tenant attorney such as myself.
Answered on Mar 18th, 2013 at 3:16 PM